Federal Policy Changes

The federal government has overturned the sensitive locations policy, permitting Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents to conduct enforcement activities in places previously deemed sensitive, such as schools, churches and hospitals. This change may understandably create anxiety among students and families. 

To that end, we are sharing new resources and guidance to staff, students and families to help navigate this challenging change from the State, the California Department of Education (CDE) and the California Department of Justice (CADOJ): 

The National Immigration Law Center (NILC) has provided a factsheet that contains information about the previous policy and the implications of the rescission for previously protected areas, including TK-12 schools. 

Gov. Gavin Newsom and his administration have established an immigration website that addresses the confidentiality of student information, legal help and mental health resources. Visit the website here. 

CDE: Reminder of Obligation to Protect Immigrant Families’ Rights to Access Public Education

CADOJ: “The complete Guide for Students and Families is available in English and Spanish at oag.ca.gov/immigrant/resources. 

CADOJ: “The complete Quick Reference for School Officials guide is available in English and Spanish 

Assembly Member Al Muratsuchi (D-Torrance) has introduced AB 49, which would prevent school agencies and day care centers from allowing ICE agents onto their campuses without a warrant and approval from the superintendent or director.  

In the Senate, SB 48 by Lena Gonzalez (D-Long Beach) would prohibit an LEA and its personnel from disclosing the education records of or any information about a pupil, pupil’s family and household, school employee, or teacher to federal immigration or enforcement officers without a judicial warrant. 

The Safety Act (AB 1955), California Education Code §§ 217, 220.3, 220.5 

Know Your Rights: Transgender Student Rights at School  

Updating Your Name & Gender on School Records  

LGBTQ Student Rights 

CDE News Brief dated August 5, 2024, ensuring students are protected from discrimination based on gender identity, gender expression, and sexual orientation. The last paragraph is something to make note of. 

Updated Legal Guidance, Protecting Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students Against Discrimination 

Parental and student rights in relation to transgender and gender nonconforming students CSBA RAQs 

CSBA AB 1266, Transgender and Gender Nonconforming Students, Privacy, Programs, Activities & Facilities 

Transgender Law Center 

LACOE: Reaffirmation of its Commitment to All Students Resolution